Saddleback Mountain

Saddleback Mountain is a summit in Sandy River Plantation that rises steeply with exposed granite faces and alpine vegetation clinging to the higher slopes. The peak sits along the Appalachian Trail corridor, offering views across the surrounding ridge system and distant valleys below.

This granite peak formed during the ancient geological events that created the Appalachian Mountains many hundreds of millions of years ago. The mountain's current shape reflects millions of years of erosion and weathering that continue to reshape the ridge.

The Maine Appalachian Trail Club maintains 267 miles of trails, including Saddleback's section, ensuring preservation of natural mountain environments.

Access is via Maine Route 4, with the hiking trail spanning about 18 kilometers for a complete round trip. Weather conditions can shift rapidly at higher elevations, so visitors need sturdy footwear and layers regardless of starting conditions.

Water flowing down different faces of the mountain feeds three separate drainage systems that serve different lakes and rivers in the region. This natural divide means that rain falling near the summit takes different paths depending on where it lands on the peak.